17 April 2015

Boris Johnson calls for new word to be used when describing Islamic extremists

Boris Johnson has insisted that an alternative word needs to be found to describe extremists who claim to act in the name of Islam.

The Mayor of London told worshippers at the Al Falah Islamic Education Centre in West Acton that he was concerned about the level of Islamophobia in the capital.

And Mr Johnson, whose great-grandfather was a Muslim, added that a "problem in the language" needed to be resolved, with the issue discussed with the Muslim Council of Britain.

The Conservative parliamentary candidate was question by members of the mosque's congregation during a campaign visit.

Chauffeur Hemat Khan, 29, of West Acton, told Mr Johnson about the problems encountered by Muslims.

The Mayor insisted the police could deal with Islamophobia and intimidation, adding: "It's very difficult to distinguish Islam and Isis, Daesh, whatever - we have a problem in the language.

"When anybody says Islamism, Muslim fundamentalist or terrorist or something like that, the wider public hear the word Muslim - you see what I'm saying? [Evening Standard] Read more